Winnebago Camper Van/New Writing Project...

[buddyhu]

Wishing you a terrific adventure! It certainly sounds promising.

[Murphy Slaw]

I've been looking at those vans myself.

Huge price variations from place to place.

Keep this thread alive with pictures, it's a great plan!

[RP]

Thanks to all for your encouragement. Fortunately my diabetes treatment for less than two weeks has been nothing short of miraculous through diligence on my part. My doctor concurred. My blood sugar level has dropped from 397 on 7/30 to a pretty stable 114-140. Unfortunately, lack of funds is going to push back my purchase of the camper van. Fortunately, I've begun writing my book and will drive around in my CRV to do site visits. I'm also working on research. So, it's not all good, but certainly mostly good. I'm sleeping well and my mental outlook has never been better....

[Steve-arino]

Keep your eyes on rvtrader.com over the next 6 mo. So many people bought RV's over the past few years, and winter is coming up. You might find yourself a good deal.

I did a similar thing 6 years ago, took 6mo. to travel in an RV from coast to coast. Alone, my guitar, my kindle and my RV. I spent the 6mo. prior to leaving, planning for the trip. Spreadsheets of RV parks and National Parks. If you choose to do the RV thing, try to plan as far in advance as possible. It won't be perfect but it will at least give you some structure. Make reservations. Walmart lots are sometimes an option in an emergency.

Unless you are good with mechanicals (I am not) consider some sort of road coverage warranty. There are numerous options.

You've got me thinking about this again. I'm 67. Maybe I can rent my place right outside of NYC on the boardwalk in Long Beach from April to October of 2023....that should cover fixed bills...my National Park Access pass is still valid....Uh oh....

Personally I'd look for a well used Winnebago View or Itasca Navion with lowish mileage. I'd have it thoroughly checked by a good mechanic before I bought it......

[jp2558]

Originally Posted by catndahats

Sounds fun, RP.
Van life is a good alternative to a trailer or larger RV.
"Go small, go simple, go now" was our mantra when we traveled with our T@B teardrop.
Your book idea may be therapeutic and encourage others.
The one observation that I've consistently seen with older seniors is that those who stay active are the healthiest and have the most positive outlook.

A month after I retired we bought a T@B Teardrop. My bass playing buddy has one too and our wives pick the campgrounds and dates and off we go. Great way to keep active in these retirement years.

[casualmusic]

Originally Posted by RP

Unfortunately, lack of funds is going to push back my purchase of the camper van. Fortunately, I've begun writing my book and will drive around in my CRV to do site visits.

A few years ago I calculated the costs of RV depreciation, insurance, maintenance, extra fuel due to weight, and nice campsites was equal or more expensive than nice motels. So the RV experience itself, in my case music festivals and campsite singalongs, needed to be worth the extra cost and investment.

So maybe rent an RV at times when the RV experience itself is wanted?

When I was younger a small pop up tent trailer was nice, affordable and towable with a small car.

I make notes on-site with cell phone video or pen and paper, and do the writing at home.

Cheers.

[M19]

I'd go with the regular Solis to get the bathroom facilities the Pocket doesn't have.

[RP]

Originally Posted by M19

I'd go with the regular Solis to get the bathroom facilities the Pocket doesn't have.

I've gone back and forth and ultimately the less expensive price tag and shorter footprint won out over the longer Solis with better toilet facilities. However, once I'm ready and able to purchase, that could change...